WASHINGTON — Whether it’s the impact of the economy or increased environmental awareness, American consumers are making some changes to their laundry habits, according to the latest National Cleaning Survey from The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA).The latest survey finds that more U.S. households are laundering in cold water and switching to multipurpose and refillable cleaning products.Echo Research questioned 1,008 American adults (500 men and 508 women) via telephone. Consumers were asked what changes, if any, they have made to their cleaning or laundry routines in the past year (respondents could choose more than one option):
- Wash laundry in cold water more frequently (58%)
- Switch to multipurpose cleaning products (41%)
- Use refillable cleaning products (38%)
- Bought high-efficiency or energy-efficient washer or dryer (36%)
- Do laundry less frequently (29%)
- Make your own cleaning products (12%)
Americans also seem to be reading their detergent label directions a lot more than in the past. Sixty-two percent of respondents say they have read the directions on a package of laundry detergent, versus 38% who said they never have. In the prior survey, 49% said they have never read the directions.Visit SDA’s website for more laundry-related information.
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